Page 57 of Siren in the Rain

Shae’s eyes flutter closed and he whispers, “This feels good.”

I grin to myself. “I’m glad. Personally, I’ve always liked having my hair washed and played with. There’s something very sensual and soothing about it. Another day, when we have more time, I’ll give you the best head massage of your life.”

He stares up at me. “I’ll hold you to that.”

His words send my heart racing and I’m momentarily breathless.

With nimble fingers, I focus on my task and begin to section Shae’s hair to start the elaborate side braid that will rest over his shoulder. I marvel at the beautiful color and silky smooth texture of his tresses. Now that he’s begun swimming in the ocean again, far from damaging his hair, it seems to have improved its luster. No doubt that’s a siren thing.

After nearly two weeks with us, Shae is finally looking healthier and happier. I’d still like to see a bit more meat on his bones, but he’s eating well and taking good care of himself, and that’s what matters most.

When I finish the braid, I undo a leather cord from around my wrist and secure it around the end of the braid, tying it tightly.

“There,” I tell him. “Go take a look.”

Uncertainly, he gets to his feet and wanders into the bathroom. I follow behind him.

He stares at himself in the mirror open-mouthed for a long moment, turning his head from side to side.

“You’re incredibly talented,” he tells me.

I flush. “Oh no, hardly. I just tend to be good with my hands.”

He arches an eyebrow at me and my cheeks get even redder.

“I didn’t mean that as an innuendo, I swear.” I shake my head and then can’t help but snicker. “Although I won’t deny my hands are good at many things.”

Shae gives me a playful shove to the shoulder. “Okay, that’s enough, big guy. We’re going to meet my grandma soon, so behave yourself.”

I beam at him, tail wagging up a storm. “As you wish.”

Princess Bride references are necessary in a budding romance, after all. Even if the romance is one-sided.

Before we know it, the visiting members of the Silverstorm sept arrive.

We get the all clear that they haven’t been followed, and Harper and Cal go outside to meet them first so the latter can do his magical scan.

I wait in the living room with Shae, holding his hand tightly. My mate is trembling a bit but maintains a stoic expression on his face. I can tell he’s not sure what to expect and is on guard, and I don’t blame him.

But I’m here to keep him safe and offer him support. “Everything’s gonna be okay,” I assure him.

Dallas opens the front door and Harper leads two women into the living room, Cal trailing behind them.

One is older but appears no more than middle-aged. She has bright blue eyes, a seemingly ageless face, and long, white hair that shimmers in the light. The other woman seems quite young and has long, violet hair streaked with silver and matching violet eyes. They’re both quite beautiful.

Shae remains frozen at my side, silently taking them in.

The older of the two women rushes forward and grabs hold of him, clutching him in her arms tightly. “Shae, my grandson, I’ve missed you,” she whispers.

Shae remains weirdly frozen and awkward in her embrace, giving me wide eyes.

Just when I’m about to rescue him, the woman lets him go with an anxious look on her face and steps back. “I apologize for touching you so suddenly. It’s been so long. I couldn’t quite believe you were real until I could feel you and know you’re truly here.”

“It’s okay,” Shae replies, still looking distinctly uncomfortable.

I reach out and rub his back, feeling his tension recede.

The older woman smiles at him sadly. “I know you probably don’t remember me, but I’m your grandmother, Coral Silverstorm.”

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